CNM Navigators
About Us
Navigators are your go-to people at CNM. They are a source of information and support through every step of the process, from application to graduation.
The Navigators also have a team of Student Navigators who have been in your shoes and know what it’s like to be a CNM Suncat. You’ll likely get a phone call or email from the Student Navigators. Got a question only a fellow student will understand? Ask them!
Schedule a one-on-one appointment or email us at [email protected] if you have not yet applied to CNM as a student.
Meet CNM's Navigators
Read more about each Navigator below. If you're ready to reach out, send an email or schedule a time to meet using the links provided.
Amber Hickman
Amber Hickman, a proud member of the Kin Ya'áanii tribe, was born and raised in Grants, New Mexico. Straight out of high school, she embarked on her educational journey at CNM. Initially starting as a CNM Student Employee and Contact Center Specialist, Amber found joy in assisting fellow students and excelled in her studies, earning two associate degrees from CNM. Currently, Amber is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on Marketing at New Mexico State University.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Amber is deeply connected to her Native American heritage and values. In her spare time, she indulges in activities like barrel racing, gardening, traveling, and cherishing moments with her family. One of Amber's core beliefs is encapsulated in the phrase: "It doesn’t matter what others are doing, it matters what you’re doing." This philosophy underscores her dedication to personal growth and excellence in all aspects of her life.
You can reach Amber at [email protected] or schedule a time to meet.
Diego Montoya
Diego Montoya was born in Albuquerque and raised in Magdalena, New Mexico, where his family has lived for generations.
Before coming to work at CNM, Diego graduated from the University of New Mexico, where he earned a bachelor's degree. As an AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) tutor for APS, Diego guided middle and high school students to achieve their goals of higher education.
Diego is a music fan and New Mexico United supporter. He is a proud New Mexican, loves to support his culture and traditions, and believes that you are never too young or too old to start learning.
You can reach Diego at [email protected] or schedule a time to meet.
Dudley Noriega Zapata
Dudley Noriega Zapata is a bilingual professional from Bogota D.C, Colombia. He is excited to share and apply his knowledge and experience as a Navigator. Dudley completed his bachelor's degree in economics and a specialization in Financial Management in his country; then, he decided to move his life and dreams from Colombia to Albuquerque in August 2021.
Initially, Dudley started as a CNM Student Employee, and years later, throughout his experience as a Student Services Technician, he developed a deep interest and delight in helping prospective students and improving their experience in college. This perception enabled him to earn an Associate Degree in Business Administration from CNM, and currently, He is looking forward to starting an MBA focused on Sport Management at UNM.
Dudley is a big soccer fan and enjoys watching Star Wars movies. He loves Albuquerque and New Mexican culture and believes that Education is a “transformative engine” that allows people to improve their quality of life.
You can reach Dudley at [email protected] or schedule a time to meet.
Soleil Burgess
Soleil Burgess (They/Them/Theirs) is a California native who made the move to Albuquerque, New Mexico during the great migration of 2020 after the pandemic hit.
While completing their master's in education, Soleil was a Student Success Coach at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona for four years where they provided proactive and comprehensive guidance on academic and interpersonal factors to diverse college students. Soleil hopes to bring the same enthusiasm and excitement for student success to CNM's campus!
Outside of their dedication to helping students achieve their goals, Soleil has a passion for musical theatre and screenwriting/producing for the Q26 - a multimedia non-profit dedicated to centering QTBIPOC (Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, People of Color) creatives. They've even had their work showcased in popular queer film festivals like LA's OutFest, NYC's NewFest, Atlanta's Out on Film Festival and Oregon's TAG! Film Festival!